The Denver City Council[1] early Tuesday morning approved a rezoning that paves the way for redevelopment of an old landfill at the old Lowry[2] air base into a housing and retail complex.

The council gave the green light to the development on a 12 to 1 vote despite significant and vociferous opposition from many nearby residents. Those opposed said they feared the project would create environmental hazards and congestion in nearby neighborhoods.

They also feared nearby residents would have mountain views blocked because buildings could reach 60 feet high in some areas.
Supporters said the project would create a walkable village in a blighted area and would help Denver become the type of city urban planners envision.

Nearly 100 people signed up to speak on the issue during a public hearing[3] that stretched for hours. The council finally voted after 1 a.m. in the morning.

Councilman Paul Lopez[4] cast the sole vote in opposition to the project. The development is north of Alameda Avenue near South Clinton Street. City planners estimate the project will produce nearly 1,000 housing units, 400,000 square feet of retail space and 120,000 square feet of office space.